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The making of a City

Sydney has transformed from a penal colony in 1788 to today's global city. Along the way it has been governed by London appointees, landed gentry and, since 1842, by a council that has been either elected or imposed by the state government.

In that time, the City of Sydney has expanded and shrunk as authorities tinkered with its borders. The City has had powers taken from it, and gained new responsibilities as the city's society evolved.